Testing Information

As students progress through their training they are periodically assessed to ensure they have a firm grasp of the requisite materials.  These assessments come in two primary forms: stripe tests and belt tests.

Stripe Tests

The material in each belt is broken down into manageable units of instruction that provide a logical progression through the belt.  After you have become proficient at the material in a unit your instructor will conduct a "Stripe Test" to ensure you have sufficiently mastered the materials to move on to additional instruction.  Your instructor may conduct the test by him or her self, but may have another instructor watch your test to provide additional feedback for you on your progress.

Stripe tests are intended to be somewhat informal and are a way of providing constructive feedback throughout your current belt to help prepare you for the more formal belt test.  

Belt Tests

Belt tests are more formal testing events. You will be asked to demonstrate all of the material you have learned for your next belt.  You will also be asked to demonstrate a great deal of the material you have mastered from earlier belts.  If you pass the test, you earn your next belt.  If you are unsuccessful, then you will receive constructive feedback indicating the areas where you should focus your improvement efforts.  Belt tests are commonly witnessed by more than one instructor.

Your instructor will consistently work to prepare you for your next test.  He or she is not interested in delaying your advancement.  They are interested in ensuring you have mastered the requisite material.  Students often feel they have the material down well enough to withstand the rigors of the belt test.  Students, however, are seldom a good barometer of their skills and abilities. Your instructor will allow you to take the test the moment he or she is satisfied that you understand and can demonstrate the material proficiently. If your instructor has not yet indicated that it is time to prepare for your test, then you are not yet ready.  For this reason it is considered impolite to ask your instructor when you can take the next test.

Testing Fees and Schedules

There is never a fee associated with any form of testing.  All stripe tests and belt tests are completely free of charge.   We will even provide you with your next belt at no charge.

Stripe tests are generally scheduled by your instructor and will typically occur during your regular lesson or group class. You will normally be told that you have qualified for the stripe test and that you will be tested during your next class.

Belt tests often involve coordination of several schedules (including yours) and therefore must be coordinated by your instructor before being conducted.  Your instructor is responsible for undertaking this coordination effort and then informing you of the date and time for your test.   You will typically be given a week or two of advanced notice to allow you to prepare for the test.

Call us today for more information at (509) 944-1889 or utilize our online contact form.

We are located in Mead (Northern Spokane), WA